(a) The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures for processing cases under the criminal jurisdiction of the justice and municipal courts.
(b) This chapter is intended and shall be construed to achieve the following objectives:
(1) to provide fair notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard to a person appearing in a criminal proceeding in a justice or municipal court;
(2) to ensure appropriate dignity in court procedure without undue formalism;
(3) to promote adherence to rules with sufficient flexibility to serve the ends of justice; and
(4) to process cases without unnecessary expense or delay.

Text of article effective on January 01, 2025